After an orchid finishes blooming, many growers wonder what to do next. Should you cut the flower spike? Should you water and fertilize it the same way? Post-bloom care is essential for keeping your orchid healthy and encouraging it to rebloom. Orchids enter a resting phase after flowering, where they focus on storing energy, growing new roots and leaves, and preparing for the next bloom cycle.
By providing the right care, you can ensure your orchid stays strong and produces even more flowers in the future!
🌸 What Happens to an Orchid After It Stops Blooming?
When an orchid’s flowers start to wilt and drop, the plant is not dying—it is simply transitioning into its dormancy phase.
✔ Signs That Your Orchid is Entering Dormancy:
- Flowers start to fade and fall off naturally.
- The flower spike (stem) turns yellow or brown (in some cases, it stays green).
- New root or leaf growth may begin as the plant shifts focus to strengthening itself.
💡 This resting period is normal and essential for your orchid’s long-term health.
✂️ Step 1: Should You Cut the Flower Spike?
One of the first decisions after blooming is what to do with the flower spike (the long stem that held the flowers). The right approach depends on whether the spike is still green or turning brown.
✔ If the flower spike is green:
- Leave it alone if you see a node (small bump) along the spike—your orchid might rebloom from the same stem.
- If you prefer a stronger bloom cycle, cut it just above the second or third node to encourage a new flower branch.
✔ If the flower spike is turning brown or yellow:
- Cut it off at the base, close to the leaves.
- A brown spike will not rebloom—it is better to remove it so the plant can focus on new growth.
💡 Always use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to prevent infections.
💧 Step 2: Adjust Watering to Support Recovery
After flowering, orchids require less water, as they are not using as much energy to produce blooms.
✔ How to Water an Orchid in the Resting Phase:
- Water only when the roots turn silvery-white (usually every 7–10 days).
- Use room-temperature, filtered water and let excess drain completely.
- Avoid overwatering—this can lead to root rot, especially during dormancy.
💡 Orchids still need moisture, but their water needs decrease slightly after blooming.
🌿 Step 3: Encourage Leaf and Root Growth
During the post-bloom period, the orchid will focus on growing new leaves and roots. This is the best time to provide nutrients and proper care to strengthen the plant.
✔ Best Practices for New Growth:
- Place the orchid in bright, indirect sunlight (avoid direct sun, which can burn leaves).
- Keep humidity between 50–70% using a humidity tray or a small room humidifier.
- Maintain good air circulation to prevent fungal infections.
💡 Healthy new roots and leaves mean your orchid is storing enough energy for its next bloom!
🌱 Step 4: Fertilize to Prepare for the Next Bloom Cycle
Orchids need nutrients after flowering to regain strength and encourage new growth. However, the type of fertilizer used should be adjusted.
✔ Best Fertilizer Routine for Post-Bloom Orchids:
- Use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20) every two weeks to support overall health.
- If new leaves and roots are developing, switch to a higher nitrogen formula (30-10-10) for stronger foliage.
- Reduce fertilization during winter dormancy, as the plant uses fewer nutrients.
💡 Once a new flower spike appears, switch to a bloom booster fertilizer (10-30-20) to encourage flowering.
🏺 Step 5: Repot If Necessary
Repotting is not always required after blooming, but it may be necessary if:
✔ The potting mix is breaking down and holding too much moisture.
✔ The orchid has outgrown its pot, with roots spilling over the edges.
✔ The roots are showing signs of rot or damage.
✔ How to Repot a Post-Bloom Orchid:
1️⃣ Gently remove the orchid from its pot and shake off old potting mix.
2️⃣ Trim any dead or mushy roots with sterilized scissors.
3️⃣ Place the orchid in a slightly larger pot with fresh orchid bark mix.
4️⃣ Avoid watering for 3–5 days to let cut roots heal.
💡 Orchids typically need repotting every 1–2 years to refresh the potting medium.
🌞 Step 6: Ensure Proper Light and Temperature for Future Blooms
Even during the resting phase, orchids need the right environment to prepare for the next bloom.
✔ Best Conditions for Post-Bloom Orchids:
- Keep in bright, indirect light (near an east-facing window is ideal).
- Maintain daytime temperatures around 65–75°F (18–24°C).
- Allow a slight temperature drop at night (55–65°F / 13–18°C) to trigger the next bloom cycle.
💡 A cooler nighttime temperature helps orchids know it’s time to rebloom!
🌸 Step 7: Watch for Signs of a New Flower Spike
After several months of rest and growth, your orchid will begin preparing for another bloom.
✔ Signs That Your Orchid Is Ready to Flower Again:
- A new spike emerges from the base of the plant.
- Leaves look firm and healthy, with steady growth.
- Roots are plump and actively growing.
✔ How to Support a New Flower Spike:
- Switch to a bloom booster fertilizer (10-30-20) every two weeks.
- Avoid moving the plant once a spike appears—changes in position can cause bud drop.
- Lightly support the spike with a small stake as it grows taller.
💡 Be patient—reblooming can take several months, but with proper care, your orchid will flower again!
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid After Flowering
❌ Cutting a green flower spike too soon – If it’s still green, it might rebloom.
❌ Watering too frequently – Reduce watering slightly during the resting phase.
❌ Keeping orchids in low light – Bright light is needed for strong growth.
❌ Neglecting temperature drops – Some orchids need cooler nights to bloom again.
❌ Forgetting to fertilize – Nutrients help orchids regain strength for the next bloom.
🛡 Final Tips for Caring for an Orchid After Flowers Fall Off
✔ Trim the flower spike only if it turns brown.
✔ Water when roots turn silvery-white, not on a fixed schedule.
✔ Fertilize with a balanced formula to encourage new growth.
✔ Keep humidity levels between 50–70% for healthy root development.
✔ Watch for new spikes and adjust care to encourage reblooming.
With the right post-bloom care, your orchid will recover, grow stronger, and reward you with even more flowers in its next bloom cycle! 🌸✨